Abstract
Background: People living with psychotic disorders are at a significantly higher risk of developing physical health problems compared to the general population. In Pakistan, particularly in Punjab, this population often faces compounded challenges due to limited mental health literacy, stigma, and inadequate access to integrated health services.
Aim: The study aimed to explore and understand the health beliefs, risk perceptions, and health expectations among individuals diagnosed with psychotic disorders in Lahore, Pakistan.
Methods: A qualitative descriptive approach was used. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 21 participants diagnosed with psychotic disorders, recruited from the Punjab Institute of Mental Health, Lahore. Data collection took place between June 2025 and August 2025. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using qualitative content analysis to identify key themes and patterns related to participants’ perceptions of health and illness.
Results: Participants generally described health as a state of mental peace, emotional stability, and spiritual balance, rather than physical well-being. Awareness of physical health risks was limited, with most respondents focusing on psychological symptoms such as intrusive thoughts and hallucinations as indicators of “illness.” Feelings of social exclusion, stigma, and lack of control over health outcomes were common. A few participants demonstrated emerging health awareness, expressing a desire to improve their lifestyle through proper diet, rest, and treatment adherence. Lack of motivation, poor insight, and minimal family involvement were identified as barriers to maintaining health-related behaviors.
Conclusion: The findings highlight that individuals with psychotic disorders in Punjab primarily associate health with mental and spiritual aspects while underestimating physical health risks. Culturally and contextually appropriate psychoeducation and nursing interventions are needed to enhance patients’ awareness, motivation, and engagement in holistic health promotion within psychiatric care settings in Pakistan.